The loss of a child, at any age, is an intensely painful experience. Sometimes people wrongly assume that because miscarriages and stillbirths happen very early in the life of a child, and are fairly common, that they are not as painful as other losses later in life. The lack of respect for life at all stages, and the prevalence of abortion in our culture, add to the sentiments that the loss of a child during pregnancy or soon thereafter is not as worthy of grief. This just isn't so. Unfortunately, those who have experienced a loss may endure extra pain and suffering due to the lack of support and understanding from others. If you find you need extra support, or have any questions about Church teachings please do not hesitate to contact the OMFRL for assistance.

Support and Discussion Group

Mothers and fathers are invited to join us for a diocesan support and discussion group that will offer opportunities for families to share and encourage each other. You will also have opportunities to join together in prayer and hear from experts in the field on dealing with miscarriage and early infant loss on the spiritual, emotional, and physical levels. Please note that each meeting is independent and you are welcome to attend any meeting. All are welcome and this outreach is free of charge.

Upcoming Dates and Times:

Thursday, August 9, 2012

Time:

7:00-8:30 p.m.

Speaker:

Msgr. Charles Mangan, "Mary, Our Mother in Grief"

Location:

St. Katharine Drexel Parish

1800 S. Katie Ave. Suite #1

Sioux Falls, SD 57106

(605) 275-6870

Contact our office to register and for more information.

Help is Available

Please know that you are not alone! Perhaps you are at a point where some outside assistance may be helpful in dealing with your struggles. Here are two recommended resources here in our diocese:

Contact your Parish Priest for a confidential meeting to help address the struggles you are experiencing.

Catholic Family Services offers counseling and support for those seeking healing with grief counseling . CLICK HERE for more information.

Medical Assistance

At Avera Women's, the Catholic healthcare system in Eastern South Dakota, you will find a team of physicians, nurses and support staff with a wealth of experience in women's health services, including those struggling with miscarriage and early infant loss.

The Pope Paul VI Institute, founded in 1985 by Thomas W. Hilgers, MD, is internationally recognized for its outstanding achievements in the field of natural fertility regulation and reproductive medicine, including assisting those couples struggling with miscarriage and early infant loss.

Assists with arrangements and financial support to provide a Christian burial for babies lost through miscarriage or early infant loss. CLICK HERE to learn more.

Videos

Video on the topic of miscarriage and early infant loss can also be found in our video library. Below is a presentation with Msgr. Charles Mangan discussing the importance and distinct role that Mary, our mother in grief, plays for those suffering from a miscarriage or early infant loss.

DISCLAIMER: The website links are listed for your convenience. The fact that a certain website is contained in this list does not in any way signify endorsement by the diocese, as some websites may take positions in opposition to the diocese or the teachings of the Catholic Church, or may display information that we feel is inappropriate. If you have any questions about the websites contained in this list, please call us at 605-988-3755